Events and festivals are integral components of culture, serving as vibrant and dynamic expressions of a community’s identity, values, and heritage. Events and festivals can encompass a wide range of activities, such as religious ceremonies, artistic performances, sporting competitions, seasonal celebrations, and commemorative occasions.
The marigolds of Dumka glowed like blessings as Judhajit and Tania circled the sacred fire, their steps steady with promise. In that moment, I saw our son’s entire journey—from his first breath in Lucknow to the man he had become—unfold before my eyes. My heart brimmed with gratitude, love, and the quiet joy of letting go.
Holi is a cherished festival in India, embodying joy, togetherness, and forgiveness. Its legends, like Lord Krishna's playful love for Radha, and the victory of good over evil, add depth to the celebration. Holi is marked by colourful gatherings and delicious food, symbolizing unity and love. The festival's essence is a reminder of positivity and happiness.
Today, India is celebrating its 73rd Republic Day and the unfurling of the tricolour flag, parades, and cultural functions are held across the country. The hoisting of a flag signifies the country was freed after a span of colonial domination. The unfurling of the tricolour signifies that as a flag of a free country, it cannot stay hung at a lower height, but is held high above. On the 26th of January the tricolour is unfurled, that is, the flag stays high up at the tip of the flag pole (not at the middle or lower height of the pole) folded, and is spread out with the pull of the rope.
As I turn 29 on October 15th, I reflect on a decade of achievements and moments. Becoming a doctor, embarking on a fulfilling career, and getting engaged have filled me with joy. My birthday, coinciding with Vijayadashami, was celebrated with family, friends, and colleagues, evoking nostalgia and cultural significance. Special meals, cherished traditions, and thoughtful gestures made this birthday truly unforgettable.
On October 7, 2021, my son Judhajit got engaged to Tania, marking a joyous occasion celebrated at The Royal Retreat in Ranchi. Family and friends gathered, honoring Bengali traditions like the Aashirwaad ceremony and a modern ring exchange. The day was filled with love, laughter, and community support, showcasing the power of family bonds. As we look toward the wedding, I feel gratitude for the memories created and excitement for their future together.
In 1948, Pakistan declared Urdu its national language despite a Bengali-speaking majority, leading to historic protests. In 2002, the UN established International Mother Language Day in efforts to promote linguistic and cultural diversity and combat the disappearance of endangered languages. With globalization threatening language diversity, consistent effort is needed to protect and preserve languages and the cultural heritage they embody.
India celebrates Republic Day on January 26th to honor the enactment of its Constitution in 1950. This marked the country's transition to a sovereign republic, free from British rule. The original handcrafted Constitution is now preserved in India's Parliament library. Beyond national pride, the day holds personal significance for many, reflecting on love, sacrifice, and service. Celebrations include flag-unfurling ceremonies and sharing stories and snacks.
As autumn begins in Bengal, Durga Puja brings joy and festivity with rituals like Nabapatrika, representing Goddess Durga through nine sacred plants. This tradition, unique to Bengal, honors fertility and nature and reflects familial bonds in a charming folktale. Although overshadowed by idol worship, Nabapatrika endures, emphasizing ecological reverence and the cyclical essence of life. It intertwines culture and spirituality, vital to the rich tapestry of Durga Puja celebrations, celebrating the triumph over evil and community.
The Bishnois of Rajasthan, India, have a centuries-old tradition of protecting the environment, notably demonstrated by the Khejarli Massacre in 1730. Their unwavering commitment to nature compelled the ruler to enact laws protecting wildlife and trees, leaving a lasting legacy. In modern times, facing environmental challenges, their example serves as a beacon of inspiration, emphasizing the vital connection between human welfare and ecological health.
The author attends the 2018 Delhi Comic Con with a friend, their first ever Comic Con and experiences excitement and joy. Delhi Comic Con is a versatile event, attracting over 200,000 visitors, with an array of cosplayers, comic characters, and merchandise. Styling movie promotions, fan engagement activities, and cosplay contests on display, Delhi Comic Con showcases the centrality of geek culture in modern pop culture through a blend of nostalgia, creativity, and fandom.
